Environment DEC
From the March 2003 issue
Governor Pataki Recognizes Innovative Green Buildings
Governor Pataki recently recognized five buildings in New York State for their energy efficient, "green" designs. The buildings employ technologies such as solar power and fuel cells and high performance windows and ventilation systems. The use of natural light and building products made from recycled materials reduce environmental impact. In addition, all of the buildings are located in urban settings to preserve open space.
A new green building
at 20 River Terrace
in New York City
Green Building Features
One of the buildings recognized by Pataki is a new condominium located at 20 River Terrace in Battery Park City, which overlooks New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. It is one of the nation's first green residential structures. In addition to increased energy efficient technologies like Energy Star®-labeled appliances and photovoltaic panels, other green building features at the condominium include:
- Filtered air - ensures high-quality indoor air regardless of outdoor air quality
- Building materials and finishes free of harmful off-gassing
- Waste water recycling system - treats and reuses water for toilets and cooling towers
- Irrigation system - uses collected storm water
- Materials have high recycled content
- Large percentage of building materials originated from within 500 miles of building site
The Hearst Communications building
with its large "green" addition
Tax Break for Green Buildings
The building at River Terrace, along with four other green buildings, will be eligible to receive tax breaks because of their environmentally friendly design. New York State's Green Building Tax Credit Program is the nation's first tax incentive that recognizes the significant environmental benefit green buildings offer. The program, administered by NYSDEC, applies to commercial and residential structures larger than 20,000 square feet and put into service during taxable years that began on or after January 1, 2001.
DEC's new headquarters in
downtown Albany
The other green buildings recognized by Governor Pataki were:
- New NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Headquarters at 625 Broadway, Albany
- New condominium at 1400 5th Avenue, home to New York City's Department of Housing Preservation and Development
- Major addition to Hearst Communications building, 959 8th Avenue, NYC
- Rehabbed apartment building, Octagon Park at 888 Main Street, NYC (Roosevelt Island)
Artist's rendering of Octagon Park,
a rehabbed "green" apartment building
